No nut on top of shock on top of strut

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The only reason that nut would have come off is if it wasn't installed properly in the first place. Either it was reused from the original strut (they should be replaced whenever removed) or it was not torqued properly. The torque specification for that nut is 42-56 ft.lbs.

The disassembly/reassembly procedure is pretty straight forward. According to the attached diagram, simply disassemble in the order shown and reassemble in the reverse order.

My main concern, is taking it off the car with that nut missing. We have the YouTube videos so we're okay for what seems to be a simple procedure, but without the nut to hold the assembly together, we worry about any danger trying to take it off of the car, as the assembly has nothing to hold it together...

Thanks.

Okay. I’m on the same page now. Your concerns are certainly understandable. This is definitely a unique situation. With the weight of the car on the spring, does the stud protrude through the top enough to put a temporary nut on it? If not, I would suggest using a coil spring compressor while it’s still on the vehicle to take the pressure off the spring. This would keep anything from popping apart while removing it from the car. See the attached picture as an example of how they’re installed. Most auto parts stores will loan this tool at no cost.

Let us know how it works out!

Okay, thanks.

How about cutting the spring in place with a sawsall?

I wouldn't recommend that. It's under some pretty significant pressure. It could come flying out of there and cause an injury.